Hernandez jokingly demurred at Giteau's compliment, but turned very serious very quickly to outline his opposite number's varied threats.

"Well, what he said is very kind," said Hernandez. "He would call me that at Toulon, just joking, in the changing room, at the beach, it's just a joke between us.

"I would call him something similar in French. I'm really looking forward to playing against him. It's a big challenge for me to go up against one of the best players rugby has ever had, one of the best players in rugby history.

"His skills are amazing, he can run quickly, he can kick, he can pass, he can take a gap, so it's going to be different from the game against Ireland in the centres. It will be tough."

Hernandez and Giteau's mutual admiration society will not last even one second of combat at Twickenham on Sunday.

Players to watch: Australian breakdown stars

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Every single attribute Hernandez outlined in Giteau's game, the 33-year-old Pumas pivot possesses in spades himself.

Should both men hit their lofty heights, Sunday's contest will be something to behold.

Hernandez believes his centre partner Marcelo Bosch could however hold the key to Argentina claiming a victory that would secure a maiden World Cup final.

Saracens centre Bosch has been restored to the starting line-up after missing the 43-20 quarter-final demolition of Ireland due to a one-week ban for a dangerous tackle.

"Marcelo is a great defender," Hernandez said. "He's the one that leads our backline defence. Although Matias Moroni did really well against Ireland, Marcelo has great experience and he's very important for me and for the team because there are many good options out wide for Australia.

"They run many good lines and have many big ball carriers like Folau and Kuridrani, so Marcelo's very important to make the right decision."